West African views on Niger’s coup

A survey conducted in West Africa suggests that most people in the region approve of the recent coup in Niger and doubt the need for military intervention to reinstate the ousted president, Mohamed Bazoum, with a majority expressing concerns about the potential for a wider regional conflict. Furthermore, the survey highlights Russia's growing appeal in West Africa, particularly in Mali, where Russia is viewed as the most trusted partner.

economist.com

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9/6/2023

With Aid on the Line, Biden Officials Debate ‘Coup’ Finding for Niger

The Biden administration is hesitant to label the military takeover in Niger as a coup due to concerns over the potential loss of leverage, increased Russian influence, and humanitarian consequences, despite calls from experts to do so.

9/10/2023

African coups show complex roots and mixed results for democracy

A recent coup in Gabon exemplifies the diversity of coup dynamics in Africa, with factors such as history, foreign intervention, economics, and the politicization of the military playing a role in shaping the outcome. While some recent coups in Africa, like those in the Sahel region, have been driven by security concerns, Gabon's coup is characterized by a continuity of the ruling elite and the maintenance of the status quo. Understanding the different patterns and drivers of coups can provide insight into the countries themselves and the current global political climate.